"He is a recreational pilot and today was one of those days he chose to fly his aircraft. We believe at a certain stage there was a fire inside the aircraft and Darren was able to land the plan and exit," Smith said.

"It could have very well been much worse. Darren is, from what we can see, he is very, very lucky to be alive and we are very thankful he is."

The serving policeman was taken to the Launceston General Hospital and is in a critical but stable condition. He will be flown to Royal Hobart Hospital.